Five-Day Shutdown in Manipur Over Tronglaobi Blast; Meira Paibis Set April 25 Deadline

A five-day statewide shutdown has been announced across Manipur starting April 19, as protests intensify over the deadly Tronglaobi bomb attack that has triggered widespread outrage.

Call for Shutdown

The shutdown has been jointly called by:

• Meira Paibi groups

• Civil society organisations

• A Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed after the incident

The protest is aimed at demanding justice and accountability for the victims.

Background of the Incident

The agitation stems from the attack in Bishnupur district, where:

• A bomb explosion in Tronglaobi killed two children and their mother

• Subsequent unrest led to the deaths of three protesters

The incident has deeply shaken the state, leading to continuous protests in multiple areas.

Deadline and Warning

Meira Paibi leader Chanambam Maipaktombi Devi stated that:

• April 25 has been set as the deadline for authorities

• All accused must be arrested within this period

• Failure to act will result in intensified agitation

Key Demands

The JAC and supporting groups have placed several demands:

• Immediate arrest of all perpetrators

• Military crackdown on suspected militant groups

• Replacement of central forces with state forces in sensitive areas

• A judicial inquiry into the role of certain security units

They have also alleged negligence by specific deployed forces during the incident.

Ongoing Investigation

The case has been handed over to the National Investigation Agency, which has begun its probe.

Meanwhile, according to authorities:

• Five cadres of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) have been arrested in connection with the case

Situation on the Ground

• Protests continue day and night across several districts

• Public anger remains high, with increasing pressure on the government

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The shutdown reflects growing unrest and a strong demand for swift justice, as Manipur continues to grapple with tensions following the Tronglaobi tragedy.